Characterization of polyaniline/polystyrene blends prepared by three different methods

A preparation and characterization of mixtures consisting of conductive polyaniline dispersed in polystyrene (PS) matrix are described. PANI was obtained by interfacial oxidative polymerization of aniline in the presence of sulfosalicylic acid, giving the protonated form the oxidation state of emeraldine (PANI-SSA). PS was synthesized by emulsion polymerization in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulfonic (SDS) as an emulsifier. Three methods were used for the preparation of PANI-SSA/PS mixtures: (1) green in-situ polymerization of aniline in the presence of SSA as a protonating agent and ammonium persulfate ((NH4)(2)S2O8 as an oxidant (Method I); (2) mixing PS with PANI-SSA dissolved in sulphuric acid at the temperature of 150 degrees C (Method II); and (3) mixing PS dissolved in dichloromethane (DCM) with PANI-SSA at room temperature (Method III). The prepared mixtures of different PANI-SSA content were characterized by FTIR, TGA, XRD and by electrical conductivity measurements. Mixing at high temperature (Method II) led to the formation of sulfonated polystyrene (PSS) or even three dimensional resins (through cross-linking of PSS) in which highly crystalline PANI particles were dispersed. [GRAPHICS] .

Automated summary

The preparation and characterization of mixtures consisting of conductive polyaniline dispersed in polystyrene matrix were described. Mixing at high temperature led to the formation of sulfonated polystyrene or even three dimensional resins, in which highly crystalline polyaniline particles were dispersed.